4 Panthers free agents in 2022 who must be paid this offseason
By Dean Jones
Taylor Moton – Carolina Panthers OT
- 2021 salary – $13.75 million (franchise tag)
The Carolina Panthers made a smart move early in the offseason when they placed the franchise tag on Taylor Moton. His level of production at right tackle over the last three seasons has been nothing short of outstanding and although letting him test the free-agent market was simply out of the question, it’s vital that the organization gets him tied down to a longer-term commitment sooner rather than later.
Early signs point to this being done, with both the Panthers and Moton keen to work out something that benefits both parties. Few would argue that the former second-round pick isn’t worth such a big financial commitment at this juncture, with the player now widely regarded as one of the NFL’s best edge protectors.
If the Panthers cannot come to an agreement with Moton before the franchise deadline, it’s going to bring around some significant complications. Tagging him for a second year in 2022 is going to be extremely costly and there will be no shortage of suitors if the Western Michigan product thrives once again next season.
Players are growing increasingly concerned about turning out on the tag. All it takes is a big injury to cause some substantial complications and although Moton has been a model of consistency and health during his career, it will be something that enters his mind.
Hopefully, some common ground can be reached before the franchise extension deadline, and Carolina would be far better off for it.